AARON Young's 50th AFL game on Saturday is a significant milestone, even though reality suggests he will clock the milestone having spent comparatively little time on the field in the modern era.
Young is probably best known to Power fans - and the rest of the football world - as the Port man to wear the green substitute vest more than any other AFL player.
The vest - and the maligned 'sub' rule - is now gone, and Young has blossomed into an exciting prospect for Port Adelaide in its up-and-down start to the year.
The once-Melbournian has established himself as part of the Power's forward line after earning a call-up in Round 2 and has continued as one of the side's most consistent players.
Sitting second in the Power's leading goal kicker tally with 15 goals to his credit, he has shown he can offer significant value to the team's attack.
Confidence, Young says, has been the biggest factor in cementing his place in the Power line-up.
"It's probably taken longer than I would've liked, but to get 50 games at the top level is probably what kids dream of and it's really exciting [for it] to finally come," Young said ahead of Saturday's game against the Eagles.
"It's hard to cement your spot, but you play a few good games, and get a little bit of confidence in the roles you play, you get a bit of cohesion with your teammates."
The 23-year-old is enjoying the challenge up forward, playing alongside the Power's key position attackers like Charlie Dixon and Justin Westhoff.
He's worked closely with them and the Power's forwards coach Matthew Nicks to hone his craft as a potent running forward.
It's the constant chase he brings to the contest that appeals most to Power fans, but the Wantirna South product isn't likely to get in the way of his bigger colleagues inside 50.
"I'm not getting in Charlie's way, he's a big boy," Young says.
"I've spent a lot more time up forward - a different role for me, but quite enjoyable.
"It's a bit of an opportunity, in the right place at the right time sometimes."
Young, like his teammates, struggled against the Blues last week but is confident the Power's best isn't too far off.
West Coast presents a unique challenge for the Power. They are a strong side - last year's grand finalists - but yet to win on the road in 2016.
Aaron Young returned against the Crows and has kept his spot through regularly consistent efforts [pic: AFL Media]
"Both teams have a lot of expectation put on them, Saturday night's game will be really important for both," Young said.
"We've shown some good signs over the last few weeks, but we need to continue to strive for a four-quarter performance.
"I don't think we're far away at all. We're getting our hands on the ball and getting it inside-50, we're just lacking a bit of cohesion between the line groups.
"So I think as soon as that clicks we'll be going well."
Port Adelaide plays West Coast at the Adelaide Oval at 4.05pm on Saturday 21 May. Tickets are available at the gate.
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